Nio Stock: ES8 Deliveries Drive Growth Despite Market Slowdown
Nio Inc (NYSE: NIO, HKG: 9866) continues to demonstrate resilience in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with its flagship SUV, the ES8, remaining a key driver of sales. February saw robust ES8 deliveries, solidifying its position as the core sales pillar for the company. This performance is particularly noteworthy given the seasonal slowdown experienced across China’s auto industry due to the extended Chinese New Year holiday.
ES8: The Engine of Nio’s Growth
The third-generation ES8 delivered an impressive 11,260 units in February, representing 54.14% of Nio’s total monthly deliveries. Within the Nio main brand deliveries of 15,159 units, the ES8 accounted for a significant 74.28% – highlighting its crucial role in the company’s product portfolio and overall financial health. Cumulative deliveries of the all-new ES8 in the first two months of 2026 reached 28,918 units, constituting 60.27% of Nio Inc’s total deliveries and 80.21% of the Nio main brand’s deliveries during the same period.
February Deliveries & Year-Over-Year Growth
Despite the challenging market conditions, Nio Inc achieved a remarkable 57.6% year-on-year increase in total deliveries for February, reaching 20,797 units. This growth underscores Nio’s ability to navigate market headwinds and maintain a strong trajectory. However, it’s important to note that ES8 deliveries experienced a sequential decline, falling 36.23% from January’s 17,658 units. This follows a second consecutive month of decline after a record 22,276 units delivered in December 2025.
Incentives to Boost Spring Sales
To capitalize on the upcoming spring sales season, Nio has announced a series of attractive incentives for the ES8. From now until March 31, customers who place orders for the new ES8 will benefit from a 10,000 yuan ($1,460) purchase tax subsidy, alongside additional perks. These include complimentary access to the 5-year NOP+ (Navigate on Pilot Plus) driver assistance feature and optional upgrades valued at 2,980 yuan.
Nio is also extending benefits to existing customers. Owners who took delivery of their ES8 after January 1, 2026, but didn’t receive the purchase tax subsidy will receive 10,000 yuan in points as a gesture of appreciation. Furthermore, a low-interest financing plan with terms up to 7 years and a down payment as low as 20% is now available.
Financial Implications & Upcoming Earnings
With a starting price of 406,800 yuan, the ES8 is a crucial component of Nio’s profitability. Driven by the model’s strong sales, Nio announced in early February that it achieved its first quarterly profit in the fourth quarter of 2025. Investors are keenly awaiting the release of Nio’s fourth-quarter 2025 earnings report on March 10 for further details.
Exchange Rate: $1 = 6.8582 yuan
Source: CnEVPost
